Once a bustling lumber and manufacturing hub in the late 1800s, Petoskey has evolved into a premier waterfront destination known for its charming downtown, historic architecture, and scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy waterfront parks, sandy beaches, water sports, and beachcombing for the Michigan state rock: the Petoskey Stone (fossilized coral).

Petoskey State Park features a beautiful one-mile sand beach with calm, clear waters. While there is a vehicle entry fee, cyclists can typically pass through the ranger station at no charge. Just steps from the marina, the Bear River Valley Recreation Area offers a 1.5-mile riverside trail with both paved and natural surface paths, footbridges, and observation decks for walking and cycling.

Downtown is located just a few hundred yards from the marina and offers many of the conveniences of a larger city. The historic Gaslight District features unique shops, restaurants, boutiques, museums, art galleries. Boaters will appreciate having a West Marine store downtown. The seasonal Downtown Farmers Market takes place on Fridays from May to September, and during the summer there are Friday night movies in the downtown park. The Bay View Music Festival runs from June through August. Throughout the year, visitors and residents enjoy a variety of concerts and community events; see the Petoskey Event Calendar. For more information consult the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau.

Major grocery stores are located about 2 miles away. Up North Rides is a car service for local and area transportation.